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VITAMIN B12
Vitamin B12
helps in the formation of healthy red blood cells (which
protect against anemia), it is also involved in
the maintenance of the myelin sheath, the fatty
substance that covers nerves and enables them to
function properly. The body also needs this vitamin for
cell replication, proper energy metabolism, and to
create the genetic material in cells known as DNA and
RNA.
Vitamin B12
is also of potential value in treating the effects of
aging and Alzheimer's disease, as well as
depression, the skin disorder known as rosacea,
tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and various
neurologic problems. It may also help to prevent
heart disease and boost the immune system. |
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Vitamin B12 is
the only B vitamin that the body stores in substantial
amounts. In addition, most people get adequate amounts
from their diets. For the body to absorb the vitamin,
however, it has to be separated from the protein in
food, a complicated process. An individual must be able
to produce enough digestive enzymes, stomach acid, and
intrinsic factor (a substance secreted by cells in the
stomach lining) for this separation to take place. Then
the vitamin bonds with intrinsic factor and is
transported to the small intestine, where it is
absorbed. Some individuals are unable to make sufficient
quantities of intrinsic factor or stomach acid as they
age, a situation ripe for a deficiency to develop.
Experts estimate that as many as 20% of older adults are
deficient in vitamin B12 but don’t know it.
In addition other
groups are also at particular risk for a deficiency:
those with ulcers, Crohn's disease or other
gastrointestinal disorders, and those taking medication
for epilepsy, chronic heartburn, or gout. In addition,
heavy drinkers are likely to have low levels of B12
because excessive alcohol consumption hinders the
nutrient's absorption. People who don't eat any meat
products (vegans) are also at risk. A deficiency
can cause fatigue, depression, confusion, memory loss,
muscle weakness, and numbness and tingling in the hands
and feet due to nerve damage
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